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Day: October 6, 2015

A little maintenance on your car now can make a huge difference when that first cold spell or snow storm hits. It can also save you a lot of money.

Here are some things you need to check and take care of it repairs and maintenance is needed:

Check the brakes
You should inspect your brakes at least once a year; more often if you tend to hit the brake pedal a lot and hard. Some of the warnings signs you need to pay attention to are mushy pedal feel, squeaking noises when you push on the brake pedal, brake warning light coming on and the car pulling to one side when you apply the brakes.

Check the Tires
Worn tires aren’t going to give you the traction you need on ice or snow. Make sure that the tread on the tire is good enough by putting a penny in the groove. If you can see all of Lincoln’s head, it’s time to replace the tire. Check for uneven wear and get an alignment if necessary. Check the tire pressure regularly and get your tires rotated every 6,000 miles to save your shock absorbers.

Check theWindshield Wipers
You’ll know when your windshield wipers need to be replaced because of the streaks on your window or when an inspection shows cracks or tears. Also make sure you check your windshield fluid regularly. Use only washer fluid as water will freeze in cold weather and be useless.

Check the Battery
That first cold morning isn’t a good time to find out that your battery needs to be replaced. Check the battery terminals, they should be clean and free of corrosion

Check the HeadlightsThere has been a lot of debate about when you should turn your headlights on but studies have shown that your vehicle is more visible, even during the day, when your lights are on so make it a rule to turn them on when you start the car regardless of the weather. Also make sure that your headlights are properly aimed. Incorrectly aimed headlights not only create blind spots for you, as the driver but can also blind other drivers.

All of these checks take very little time but they can save you a lot of time and money later. Regular maintenance can save you from having to pay for costly repairs down the line and also keep you and your loved ones safe throughout the winter.